A disturbing murder case from Wisconsin has shocked a local hunting community after a 75-year-old man allegedly shot and killed one of his longtime hunting companions during a night of drinking and casual conversation.
Authorities say Brent Hofman, of Shawano County, suddenly began making bizarre comments about killing his friends before opening fire inside a detached garage. One man was killed, while another narrowly escaped and fought back in self-defense.
Wisconsin Man Charged With First-Degree Murder
Brent Hofman, 75, has been arrested and charged with first-degree intentional homicide in connection with the November 2025 shooting death of 67-year-old Ricky Roundy.
According to a criminal complaint, the deadly incident happened at a home in the Town of Germania, where the three men had gathered to drink and talk about deer hunting.
Investigators said Hofman and the two victims had known each other for more than 10 years because they hunted on nearby properties.
Friends Were Drinking and Talking About Hunting
The surviving witness, identified in court documents as “Victim #2,” told investigators that Hofman had always been a bit unusual but had never shown violent behavior before.
According to the complaint, the witness described Hofman as:
“A bit weird” and “a hermit sort of dude.”
Still, the men regularly spoke about hunting and never had major problems with each other.
On the night of the shooting, Hofman reportedly arrived carrying a pistol and had already been drinking alcohol. The three men then spent time together in a detached garage, drinking cocktails and discussing deer hunting.
Police said there were no arguments or signs of tension before the shooting happened.
Suspect Made Chilling Statement Before Shooting
During the gathering, Hofman allegedly made a sudden and disturbing comment that shocked the others.
According to investigators, Hofman picked up a pistol from the bar and said:
“I hope you’ll excuse me if I have to kill you guys.”
The witness told police the statement was completely out of character and unlike anything Hofman had ever said before.
Authorities said neither of the two men had done or said anything that could have upset Hofman.
Victim Shot Without Warning
Moments later, Hofman allegedly began firing the gun without any reason.
The surviving witness told investigators that Hofman suddenly started shooting, striking Ricky Roundy and causing him to collapse inside the garage.
As chaos broke out, the second man ran from the garage and locked himself inside another building on the property. Fearing Hofman would continue the attack, he grabbed a .22-caliber rifle and called 911.
According to the complaint, the terrified man told the emergency dispatcher:
“If that guy comes to the window, he is f—ing dead.”
Surviving Witness Shot Back in Self-Defense
Investigators said Hofman allegedly chased the surviving witness and attempted to enter the building where the man had hidden.
The witness later told police:
“He wanted to kill me.”
As Hofman approached the glass door, the witness fired his rifle. The bullet shattered the glass and struck Hofman, leaving him with serious cuts across his face.
Shortly afterward, deputies arrived at the scene and took Hofman into custody.
Suspect Allegedly Made Strange Comments to Deputies
Police said Hofman appeared heavily intoxicated when officers arrested him.
According to investigators, Hofman asked one deputy:
“Why did you shoot me?”
The deputy reportedly replied that he had not shot him.
Hofman then allegedly responded:
“Thank you. I love you.”
Authorities later confirmed that Hofman entered pleas of not guilty in court.
Longtime Friendship Ends in Tragedy
The case has left many people stunned because the men had reportedly known each other for years without any serious conflicts. What began as a normal evening of drinks and hunting talk quickly turned into deadly violence.
Investigators continue examining what may have caused Hofman’s sudden actions, though court documents suggest alcohol may have played a major role in the incident. Meanwhile, the tragic death of Ricky Roundy has deeply affected those who knew the men and the local hunting community in Wisconsin.
